Caroline "Carol" Gossman

Caroline “Carol” Louise Gossman (Raugutt), a vibrant and caring soul, passed away on August 9, 2024, at the age of 89.

A Memorial Service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 16, 2024, at Carlsen Funeral Home, Aberdeen, with Pastor Jeff Whillock of Bethlehem Lutheran Church officiating.

Carlsen Funeral Home and Crematory, Aberdeen, is in charge of arrangements.  Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at https://www.carlsenfh.com/

Caroline Louise Raugutt was born on March 6, 1935, to Chris Gotlieb and Elsie Wilhelmina (Bigelow) Raugutt in McIntosh, SD, as one of nine children. From a young age, Carol embraced the role of caregiver, helping to raise her siblings and nurturing those around her throughout her life.

Carol was married to Benjamin Mishaw, but they later decided that they were not meant to be. Years later, she met Doyle Gossman, and they were married in 1981, sharing their life together until Doyle's passing in 2006.

Driven by a deep sense of duty, Carol joined the Navy at the young age of 18 and later put herself through college while raising her family. Her career was diverse and impactful, including roles as a probation officer, IRS employee, and her cherished time at Wheat Growers in Stratford, SD. She valued every profession she pursued, often sharing fond memories of the connections she made along the way. Carol's zest for life was evident in her relationships, her work, and her ability to make the most of all that life offered—both the good and the bad.

Known for her feisty yet loving spirit, Carol thrived in roles that involved helping others. Her passion for cooking was another way she touched lives, creating memorable experiences at places like Carol's Kitchen, Bar-N, and Big Fella’s Bar and Grill. She was an avid Minnesota Twins fan who also loved traveling, reading, baking, attending rodeos (especially watching the bull riders), listening to music, and she loved to dance. Carol also had a talent for embroidery, but what she cherished most was making holidays special for her family.

Some of the family's favorite memories are of Christmas at "Grandma's" house, where her famous Christmas treats—always homemade and intricately decorated to fit the theme—became the highlight. Carol loved to celebrate, whether it was birthdays, Easter egg hunts, or any special occasion. Going to Grandma’s was always an adventure, filled with joy and love, creating moments that will never be forgotten.

Another one of Carol's many qualities are her wittiness and sense of humor. She loved cracking jokes, making silly statements, and even being on the receiving end of a good-natured joke. For example, when Stacy would often yell, "Mom, where's the meatloaf?" Carol never had a boring response to that statement. Or when one of her grandchildren was heading to a rodeo, she would always playfully request a cowboy for herself.

Carol often lovingly referred to her grandchildren by pet names like "favorite" and "weirdo," but, of course, all the grandchildren knew that they were each her favorite and her “weirdo” in their own special way.

Carol shared her life with many loved ones, including family, friends, customers, and truly anyone who crossed her path. Surviving Carol are her three children: Karie (Harlen aka KickAss) Van Maanen, Mark (Lori) Mishaw, and Stacy Gossman. Additionally, Carol was the doting grandmother of five grandchildren: Tara Kolb, Sara Kolb, Alisha (Jon) Kaufman, Justin (Cassie) Pauley, and Cody Johnson. She was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: David Kolb, Mackenzie Kaufman, Jazmyn Kaufman, Nyc Kaufman, and Hunter Pauley. Carol is survived by a sister, Judy (Dwight) Sackrieter; a brother, Roger Raugutt; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son, Kevin LaRocque; her parents; four sisters: Delores Reiger, Darlene Fried, Barbara Scholes, Ruby Andreson; and two brothers: Chris Raugutt and Robert Raugutt.

Carol Gossman will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to family, her service to others, and her spirited approach to life. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion. 

One final takeaway that Carol leaves behind is her famous phrases, which will never be forgotten and will forever remain a staple in our lives. These include: "Tie a knot and hang on," "Rome wasn't built in a day," and "Let it go!" Her words of wisdom will continue to guide us through tough times, including this one. Carol was as tough as they come, and her strength touched us all. We will "tie a knot and hang on," just as she taught us to do.

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